Mental Health

Mental health encompasses a broad array of factors that determine one's mental state — namely, the ability to think, process information, relate to others, maintain certain moods, feel emotion and function on a daily basis. Mental disorders, diseases and illness compromise these abilities and can adversely affect one's natural mental health. Biological, environmental and socioeconomic factors often play a role in determining mental health as well.

Mental illness is a widespread global issue. According to the U.K. Department of Health, one in four adults will experience mental illness at some point in their lives. The World Health Organization estimates 450 million people worldwide currently suffer from mental disorders. Nonetheless, the U.S.-based National Alliance on Mental Illness notes that 70 to 90 percent of mental health cases undergo an alleviation in symptoms when they are medically treated.

General mental health treatment techniques include taking prescribed medication, participating in various psychotherapy methods or undergoing some form of brain stimulation therapy such as electroconvulsive therapy. A combination of the three techniques is also common. (Photo: Shutterstock)